Abstract: Methods for the diagnosis of visceral, cutaneous and canine leishmaniasis in a subject suspected of being infected with the parasitic protozoa Leishmania is disclosed. Disclosed are antibody-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for the detection of antibodies to Leishmania parasite soluble antigens and antigen-capture ELISAs for the detection of Leishmania parasite soluble antigens in host samples. Also disclosed are immunodiagnostic kits for the detection of Leishmania parasite circulating antigens or IgM and IgG antibodies in a sample from subject having visceral, cutaneous or canine leishmaniasis. In these methods and kits, detection may be done photometrically or visually. The methods and kits also allow the visualization of Leishmania amastigotes or promastigotes in a sample.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for the identification of novel receptors and/or novel ligands. The invention is based on the concept that parasites have developed a number of biologically active compounds in their saliva to cope with the defense mechanisms of the host organisms on which they feed and to manipulate the biological functions of host molecules to their advantage. These saliva compounds can be used to identify novel molecules within the host systems. Furthermore, these saliva compounds can be used to elucidate the functions of molecules whose existence is already known.

Abstract: A method and composition for sterilizing articles that are contaminated with infectious prion protein, such as surgical instruments, kitchen utensils, laboratory tools, etc., comprising the steps of: (a) heating the articles to be treated at a moderate temperature well below the incineration temperature of said infectious prion protein, wherein said moderate temperature is sufficient to enhance the proteolytic susceptibility of infective prion protein associated with said articles; and (b) exposing the heated articles to a proteolytic enzyme that is effective for at least partial reduction of the infective protein prion associated with said articles under said moderate temperature.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to particular monoclonal antibodies that find use in the identification and purification of Sarcocystis neurona and related antigens. In particular, these antibodies permit the diagnosis of Sarcocystis related diseases such as equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM).

Abstract: An immunoassay for Sarcocystis neurons antibodies in equines is described. The immunoassay uses blocking of Sarcocystis antigens by antibodies to Sarcocystis sp. other than Sarcocystis neurona in connection with the immunoassay.

Abstract: The present invention provides a reagent for the detection or monitoring of a Toxoplasma gondii infection, which includes as a reactive substance a truncated Toxoplasma gondii P30 protein in which all of the hydrophobic C-terminal region of the native protein starting with the amino acid positioned after the amino acid 299 (SEQ ID NO: 1) has been deleted and all of the region of the native protein having the sequence starting with amino acid 31 and ending with the amino acid 299 (SEQ ID NO: 1) is contained.

Abstract: A method and agent for antibodies against Treponema pallidum are provided. The method involves gene-amplifying and cloning a selection of recombinant antigens. The selection of recombinant antigens consists of 17 kD antigen, 47 kD antigen and TmpA. The antigens are expressed in host vector systems, followed by purification. The purified antigens are then bound to a solid phase individually or in combination, and subjected to a reaction with a clinical specimen. The antibodies bound from the clinical specimen by means of an antigen/antibody reaction are determined by means of a detection system wherein the selection of the recombinant antigens for detecting antibodies to Treponema pallidum consists of 17 kD antigen, 47 kD antigen and TmpA.

Abstract: Methods for detecting parasites, such as Cryptosporidium parvum, in turbid and non-turbid samples by solubilizing molecular markers or antigens of the parasite. The molecular markers are solubilized by incubating a sample containing the parasite with a solubilization buffer and detecting the solubilized antigens by electrochemiluminescence. The solubilization buffer contains one or more detergents alone or in combination with one or more denaturing agents in a buffered solution. The methods are an improvement over existing immunofluorescence assays for C. parvum because the methods described herein are quantitative, reproducible, have high sensitivity, are not labor-intensive, require only minimal sample processing, and avoid being adversely affected by sample turbidity. In addition, by using a electrochemiluminescence assay, microscopy is not required.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for the in situ growth, freezing and testing of cultured cells. In particular, the present invention provides methods and compositions for the long-term preservation of cells in ready-to-use formats for testing. In addition, the present invention provides rapid and easy to use means to diagnose viral and other infections. Furthermore, the present invention provides easy to use means to grow and store cells in situ for testing methods. Indeed, the present invention makes viral, chlamydial and other diagnostic methods accessible to small laboratories, including those without cell culture capabilities.

Abstract: A method for quantitatively and/or qualitatively assaying an analyte in a sample, wherein the analyte is a receptor binding compound, has low detection limits equivalent to those of radioreceptor assays. The method comprises the steps of a) contacting the sample with material comprising a receptor for the analyte in order for receptor-analyte binding to occur and b) further contacting the sample with a detectable ligand for the receptor in order for receptor-ligand binding to occur, followed by c) separating the resulting receptor bound and free fractions, d) subjecting the receptor bound fraction to dissociating conditions releasing the ligand from the receptor and e) assaying for the dissociated ligand in a manner known per se for the detection of the detectable ligand.

Abstract: An immunological assay method is disclosed which utilizes recombinant antigen, rNcp29, derived from an immunodominant surface antigen of Neospora caninum tachyzoites. Specifically, an ELISA method is disclosed. The method provides sensitive and specific detection of antibodies in sera of infected animals and does not exhibit cross-reaction with antisera against related parasites such as T. gondii. The ELISA method is used to screen animals for the presence of serum antibodies specific to recombinant Ncp29.

Abstract: Chimeric gene formed by the DNA sequences that encode the antigenic determinants of four proteins of L. infantum, useful for the serological diagnosis of canine Leishmaniosis and protein obtained, that consists of the prior employment of a cloning strategy. The patent describes the intermediate products generated during the process. A clone is achieved expressed in the protein rLiPO-Ct-Q (pPQI). To this initial vector, by means of the use of suitable restriction targets, DNA fragments are sequentially added that are encoded in other proteins and after each cloning step the correct orientation of each one of the inserts reduces the size of the expression products, the complete nucleotide sequence of the final pPQV clone being determined. A polypeptide is obtained with a molecular mass of 38 kD and with an isoelectric point of 7.37.

Abstract: A chimeric polypeptide encoded by the chimeric gene formed by the DNA sequences that encode the antigenic determinants of four proteins of L. infantum is disclosed. The protein obtained, rLiPO-Ct-Q (pPQI) has a molecular mass of 38 kD with an isoelectric point of 7.37. This chimeric polypeptide is useful for preventing and/or treating leishmaniosis in animals or humans.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for carrying out in vitro the complete developmental sequence culture of tissular parasites, which includes culturing the parasites in a totally defined culture medium which is an axenic monophasic liquid culture medium, free of serum and free of serum-derived or cell-derived macromolecules, proteins and peptides. For obtaining amastigote forms, this medium is buffered at a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 and has an osmolarity of at least 400 milliosmoles/kg of liquid. For obtaining promastigote forms, the medium is buffered at a pH of 7 to 7.5 and has an osmolarity of at least 300 milliosmoles/kg liquid. Application to the in vitro culture of different stages of tissular parasites such as Leishmania, T. cruzi, and hamatoprotozoa is also provided.

Abstract: Transfusion of contaminated blood has become the major route of transmission for Chagas' disease. Current screening tests are insensitive and yield conflicting results, while confirmatory assays do not exist. The present invention relates to antigens and their use for serological diagnosis of Chagas' disease. More specifically, the present invention concerns assays which are able to reliably and accurately detect the presence of antibodies to various specific antigens of Trypanosoma cruzi in a highly sensitive and specific manner.

Abstract: Compounds and methods for the diagnosis and treatment of B. microti infection are disclosed. The compounds provided include polypeptides that contain at least one antigenic portion of a B. microti antigen, DNA sequences encoding such polypeptides, and fusion proteins comprising such polypeptides. Antigenic epitopes of such antigens are also provided, together with pharmaceutical compositions and vaccines comprising such polypeptides, DNA sequences, fusion proteins or antigenic epitopes. Diagnostic kits containing such polypeptides, DNA sequences, fusion proteins or antigenic epitopes and a suitable detection reagent may be used for the detection of B. microti infection in patients and biological samples. Antibodies directed against such polypeptides and antigenic epitopes are also provided.

Abstract: This invention provides a novel Cryptosporidium parvum protein disulfide isomerase polypeptide, and nucleic acids that encode this polypeptide. The inventionalso provides methods, reagents, and kits that are useful for diagnosing infection by Cryptosporidium parvum. The methods are based on the discovery of binding agents, including recombinant polyclonal antibodies, that bind to the protein disulfide isomerase polypeptide of C. parvum.

Abstract: A method for detecting the occurrence of a biological reaction or quantitating its result employing superparamagnetic particles is disclosed. The particles are first conjugated or adsorbed to identical biomolecules which are members of a biological binding pair and the conjugates or adsorbates so formed are then contacted with a liquid or solid sample known to contain, or suspected of containing, molecules that are the biological binding partners of the biomolecules in the conjugates or adsorbates. The conjugates or adsorbates are digested with the liquid or solid sample for a time sufficient to enable the formation of a tightly bound, three-dimensional mass comprised of interlinked biomolecules and bound superparamagnetic particles. The mass is exposed to a magnetic filed for the shortest period necessary to induce magnetization of the superparamagnetic particles, whereupon the magnetic field is immediately removed.

Abstract: A method for analyzing blood enables one to isolate, detect, enumerate and confirm under magnification the presence or absence of target cancer cells and/or hematologic progenitor cells, or other rare events which are known to circulate in blood. The analysis is performed in a sample of centrifuged anticoagulated whole blood. The analysis involves both morphometric and epitopic examination of the blood sample while the blood sample is disposed in a centrifuged blood sampling container. The epitopic analysis of the presence or absence of cancer cells relies on the detection of epitopes which are known to be present on cancer cells and not on normal circulating blood cells; and the epitopic analysis of the presence or absence of hematologic progenitor cells relies on the detection of epitopes which are known to be present on hematologic progenitor cells and not on normal circulating blood cells.

Abstract: A method for selectively detecting the presence of C. parvum organisms in a sample. A method for selectively detecting the presence of C. parvum organisms and for detecting the presence of G. lamblia organisms, simultaneously, in a sample. A method for selectively detecting viable C. parvum organisms in a sample potentially containing viable C. parvum organisms. A method for selectively detecting viable C. parvum organisms and for detecting viable G. lamblia organisms, simultaneously. A method for selectively detecting infectious C. parvum organisms in a sample, and in another embodiment, additionally comprising detecting viable G. lamblia organisms in the sample, simultaneously. Kit for use in performing these methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel enzymes, tryparedoxins, their isolation from Crithidia fasciculata, a method for the production thereof in genetically transformed bacteria, and their use as molecular targets for the discovery of trypanocidal drugs.

Abstract: The present invention provides bacterial plasymids and recombinant SOW proteins that are useful as antigens for serodiagnosis of coccidiomycosis.

Abstract: A composition for and a method of eliciting in a vertebrate a protective immune response against an eukaryotic parasite are disclosed. The method includes administering to the vertebrate a composition having a carrier group coupled to an oligosaccharide obtained from a lipoglycan found on the surface of an eukaryote. The composition is administered in an amount sufficient to elicit a protective immune response against the parasite.

Abstract: Novel peptides comprising an amino acid sequence which is repeated in the P. vivax ESP-1 protein (PvESP-1) are disclosed. Also disclosed are antibodies generated in response to immunization with these peptides which exhibit high specificity and sensitivity for P. vivax antigens in diagnostic assays. Assay methods employing the inventive antibodies and kits for carrying out the inventive methods are also provided.

Abstract: Novel Protostrongylidea antigens and early and accurate diagnostic methods for Protostrongylidae infection are disclosed. Novel P. tenuis-specific antigens and methods of discriminating between P. tenuis infection and infection with other closely-related members of the Protostrongylidae family are provided. Novel E. cervi-specific antigens and methods of discriminating between E. cervi infection and infection with other closely-related members of the Protostrongylidae family are provided.

Abstract: A method of measuring the amount of cyclosporin in a sample suspected of containing cyclosporin is disclosed. A method of inactivating interfering cross-reactive material in an assay for measuring the amount of cyclosporin in a sample suspected of containing cyclosporin is also disclosed. Compositions wherein cyclosporin is conjugated to an immunogenic carrier or a label, optionally through a linking group, at an alanine nitrogen atom of the cyclic backbone of cyclosporin are also disclosed. Compositions wherein atiocyclosporin is conjugated, optionally through a linking group, to an immunogenic carrier or a label are also disclosed. Where cyclosporin is conjugated to an immunogenic carrier, the conjugates may be used as immunogens for the preparation of antibodies which are capable of recognizing cyclosporin.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are novel medical devices, particular well-suited for sustained delivery of therapeutically-significant substances. Also disclosed are methods of making and using these delivery devices. Using these devices and methods, the present invention teaches sustained, targeted and reversible delivery of immunostimulating agents, as well as therapeutic agents such as enzymes, hormones and neurotransmitters, to name but a few.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method to detect D. immitis infection in a host animal using a D. immitis Di33 protein to detect anti-D. immitis Di33 antibodies in a bodily fluid of the animal. Also included is a method to detect D. immitis infection in a host animal using a D. immitis anti-Di33 protein to detect Di33 proteins in a bodily fluid of the animal. The present invention also relates to D. immitis detection kits that include either a Di33 protein or an anti-Di33 antibody; such kits also include a composition to detect an immunocomplex between the anti-Di33 antibody and D. immitis Di33 protein. The present invention also includes Di33 proteins, nucleic acid molecules encoding such proteins, as well as recombinant molecules and recombinant cells comprising such nucleic acid molecules, and anti-Di33 antibodies. Also included are methods to produce such proteins, nucleic acid molecules and antibodies.

Abstract: Ligand-aminodextran-(phycobiliprotein or tandem dye) conjugates useful for detection of a desired target biological material by providing an enhanced fluorescent signal are described. Also described is a method for a single-measurement quantification of multiple populations of cells based upon the labeling of different pairs of cell populations, each pair containing mutually exclusive cell receptors which are expressed at substantially similar receptor densities with labeled ligands for each receptor. One cell population is labeled with a ligand capable of binding to a first cell surface receptor which ligand is directly conjugated to a fluorescent phycobiliprotein or tandem dye; and a second cell population is labeled with a ligand capable of binding to a second cell surface receptor, which ligand is cross-linked to an aminodextran to a fluorescent phycobiliprotein or tandem dye.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the detection of adult Taenia solium and the diagnosis and treatment of T. solium infection are described. The compositions contain one or more adult T. solium polypeptides. The polypeptides are useful as diagnostic agents for the detection of adult tapeworm infection. More preferably, the polypeptides are T. solium glycoprotein antigens referred to herein as T. solium excretory/secretory (TS/ES) polypeptides. The most preferred TS/ES polypeptide has a molecular weight of approximately 33 kDa, 38 kDa, or 42 kDa as determined by SDS-PAGE analysis.

Abstract: The present invention provides a reagent for the detection or monitoring of a Toxoplasma gondii infection, which includes as a reactive substance a truncated Toxoplasma gondii P30 protein in which all of the hydrophobic C-terminal region of the native protein starting with the amino acid positioned after the amino acid 299 (SEQ ID NO: 1) has been deleted and all of the region of the native protein having the sequence starting with amino acid 31 and ending with the amino acid 299 (SEQ ID NO: 1) is contained. The present invention further describes methods of screening for anti-Toxoplasma antibodies in a biological sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a diagnostic aid for the qualitative or quantitative detection of antibodies and for determining their avidity. This makes it possible to diagnose the early phase of viral, bacterial or parasitic infections. The diagnostic aid according to the invention is particularly suitable for automated processing in large analytical laboratories.

Abstract: Method and compositions are provided for the determination of telomere length and telomerase activity, as well as the ability to inhibit telomerase activity in the treatment of proliferative diseases. Particularly, primers are elongated under conditions which minimize interference from other genomic sequences, so as to obtain accurate determinations of telomeric length or telomerase activity. In addition, compositions are provided for intracellular inhibition of telomerase activity and means are shown for slowing the loss of telomeric repeats in aging cells.

Abstract: A high throughput toxicology screening method is provided. In the subject method, at least 10 different compound compositions are tested simultaneously. Each compound composition is tested by contacting it with a plurality, e.g. from about 10 to 1000, of non-mammalian multi-cellular organisms and determining the effect of the compound composition on the organisms. The multi-cellular organisms employed in the subject methods are small, have differentiated tissues and organs and have a rapid generation time. The subject high throughput screening methods find use in a variety of applications, and are particularly suited for use in the toxicology screening of libraries of compounds, such as libraries of combinatorially produced compounds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to combinations or mixtures of antigens which may be used in the detection of IgM and/or IgG antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to methods of using these combinations of antigens, antibodies raised against these combinations of antigens or against the novel P29 antigen thereof, as well as kits and vaccines containing the antigens present in the combinations.

Abstract: A high-throughput live whole cell assay method involves measuring the effect of one or more test compounds on a characteristic, e.g., growth, of a cell culture in a multi-well vessel at one or more timepoints during the growth of these cells in culture, after the cells are contacted with the compound. This assay format permits the identification of test compounds that have an inhibitory or stimulatory effect, among others, on cell growth at different times during the growth phase of the cells. It has the advantages of using small volumes which make the assay suitable for automation and enables detection of test compounds with the desired effect that are often missed by conventional assays which assess test compound activity at a single timepoint.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for specifically increasing expression of MHC class I molecules in cells, and in particular, in poorly immunogenic tumor cells as well as in pathogen-infected cells. Also provided by the present invention are methods for increasing presentation of endogenous antigens onto the cell surface by MHC class I molecules, as well as methods of increasing the immunity of an animal against an antigen. The methods presented herein are useful in enhancing immune recognition of any cell infected with any pathogen, for in vitro and in vivo screening of candidate immunogene therapeutic approaches, and for enhancing the generation of antibodies to an otherwise poorly immunogenic antigen or cell. The present invention further provides methods for reducing or increasing the radiation sensitivity of a cell.

Abstract: The present invention relates to combinations or mixtures of antigens which may be used in the detection of IgM and/or IgG antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to methods of using these combinations of antigens, antibodies raised against these combinations of antigens or against the novel P29 antigen thereof, as well as kits and vaccines containing the antigens present in the combinations.

Abstract: Methods for detecting parasites, such as Cryptosporidium parvum, in turbid and non-turbid samples by solubilizing molecular markers or antigens of the parasite. The molecular markers are solubilized by incubating a sample containing the parasite with a solubilization buffer and detecting the solubilized antigens by electrochemiluminescence. The solubilization buffer contains one or more detergents alone or in combination with one or more denaturing agents in a buffered solution. The methods are an improvement over existing immunofluorescence assays for C. parvum because the methods described herein are quantitative, reproducible, have high sensitivity, are not labor-intensive, require only minimal sample processing, and avoid being adversely affected by sample turbidity. In addition, by using a electrochemiluminescence assay, microscopy is not required.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the identification of toxoplasma gondii antigens and the preparation thereof by genetic engineering. A cDNA expression gene bank of this parasite was prepared. Recombinant clones which are of diagnostic interest were identified using a high-titer rabbit anti-Toxoplasma gondii serum, and isolated.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method by which new antigens from vector-borne pathogens may be discovered and analyzed by incubating the viable pathogens in the saliva of their vector host. Three such antigens, proteins with the approximate molecular weights of 19, 22 and 24 kDa, have been discovered and analyzed from a strain of B. burgdorferi T-15. The proteins provide a route for the development of immunodiagnostics for Lyme disease and related disorders. The proteins and related amino acids and DNA sequences may also be used for the immunization, for the detection of B. burgdorfei in human or body fluids, and also for the generation of specific antibodies for use in diagnosis, epidemiology, prevention of and treatment of Lyme disease.

Abstract: Disclosed are immunomagnetic electrochemiluminescence assays for eukaryotic cells, particularly human cells. A competitive binding assay is disclosed which enables affinity measurements of antibodies specific for eukaryotic cell membrane proteins. Such an assay is particularly useful for verifying or measuring the affinity of therapeutic antibodies following chelate conjugation.

Abstract: This invention provides methods, reagents, and kits that are useful for diagnosing infection by E. histolytica. The methods are based on the discovery of binding agents, including recombinant polyclonal antibodies, that bind to the 29 kDa antigen of E. histolytica.

Abstract: Recombinant proteins have been developed for the immunization of animals against cryptosporidiosis. The proteins are effective for the immunization of a variety of animals against Cryptosporidium parvum, particularly for the production of hyperimmune colostrum that may be used to confer passive immunity against the parasite. Isolated DNA sequences which encode these proteins have also been developed. The DNA sequences may be inserted into recombinant DNA molecules such as cloning vectors or expression vectors for the transformation of cells and the production of the proteins.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel microfluidic devices and methods that are useful for performing high-throughput screening assays. In particular, the devices and methods of the invention are useful in screening large numbers of different compounds for their effects on a variety of chemical, and preferably, biochemical systems.

Abstract: The nucleotide sequence of Tc100, a gene encoding PTc100, a new Trypanosoma antigen, and the amino acid sequence of PTc100 are described. Tc100 and PTc100, or fragments thereof, modified or otherwise, can be used directly or indirectly for the detection of Trypanosoma cruzi, or for the monitoring of the infection generated by Trypanosoma cruzi, in man or in animals.

Abstract: Disclosed is a testing device and methods for the identification of an analyte of interest in a sample. In a preferred embodiment, the testing device includes a front panel having at least one sample application aperture; a rear panel having at least one solvent application aperture; a sample collection matrix disposed between the rear panel and the front panel, the sample collection matrix being in communication with the sample and solvent application apertures of the front and rear panels; and an insertable test strip containing a reagent enabling detection of the analyte of interest.

Abstract: The plastid DNA of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum has been sequenced and found to contain a gene encoding an EF-Tu protein. Inhibitors of the protein are effective as anti-malarial compounds and the protein can be used to screen for such inhibitors. Furthermore, the 23S ribosomal RNA encoded on the malaria parasite plastid DNA is a target for anti-malarial compounds and the antibiotic thiostrepton acts as an anti-malarial by binding to the RNA.

Abstract: A process for detecting HIV infection, Hepatitis A, B and C, and other similar infections in a plasma sample, wherein the process involves the use of an excitation laser source to irradiate upon the plasma sample an excitation laser beam to obtain a fluorescence emission spectrum of the plasma sample. The invention uses an excitation laser wavelength of about 355 nanometers. Detection of the fluorescence is made in the wavelength range from about 380 to 600 nanometers. The resulting spectrum of the sample is compared with the spectrum of a control which is free from infection. Analysis of the parameters of the emission spectra including, but not limited to, peak intensity wavelength, amplitude at the peak intensity, area ratio of left and right portions of the emission spectra, and shifts of the peak intensity wavelength, allows determination of HIV infection, Hepatitis A, B and C, and other similar infection in the plasma.

Abstract: Species of schistosoma , such as schistosoma mansoni, S. japonicum and S. haematobium, which infect humans and animals, synthesize the Lewisx (Lex), lacdiNAc (LDN) and fucosylated LDN (LDNF) carbohydrate antigens. Parasitic helminths other than schistosomes, such as Dirofilaria immitis (responsible for heartworm), Fasciola hepatica (a liver fluke) and Haemonchus contortus (intestinal fluke) also synthesize the LDN and LDNF antigens, but they do not synthesize, or synthesize only undetectable amounts of, Lex antigen. The differential detection and abundance of the Lex, LDN and LDNF antigens in sera and other bodily fluids of individuals is diagnostic of the presence of active and/or previous infections from schistosomes and other parasitic helminths. The present invention is directed to methods of differential detection and diagnosis of parasitic helminth infections, and kits for use in such methods.